Why was ex-Formula One driver Antonio Pizzonia arrested?

Antonio Pizzonia was arrested for assault after footage emerged of him kicking and punching another man at a kart racing event.

What did Antonio Pizzonia say about the karate kick incident?

Pizzonia stated he acted instinctively to defend his son, who he felt was being coerced by an adult.

Where did the assault involving Antonio Pizzonia take place?

The incident occurred at the Speedsportz Racing Park in Montgomery County, Texas, during a junior kart race.

Home / Crime and Justice / Ex-F1 Star Pizzonia's Karate Kick Arrest

Ex-F1 Star Pizzonia's Karate Kick Arrest

13 Jan

•

Summary

Pizzonia claims he acted instinctively to defend his son.
The former F1 driver was arrested at a race track in Texas.
Footage shows Pizzonia delivering a flying kick and punch.

Ex-F1 Star Pizzonia's Karate Kick Arrest

Former Formula One driver Antonio Pizzonia has been arrested in Montgomery County, Texas, following an on-track altercation. The incident occurred on Saturday night while Pizzonia was attending the 2026 Superkarts! USA Winter Series event to watch his son compete. Video footage circulating online shows Pizzonia delivering a karate-style kick and a punch to another man.

Pizzonia, who raced in Formula One between 2003 and 2005, has since been released from jail. In his first public comments, he stated that his actions were instinctive, aimed at defending his son from an adult who was allegedly coercing the child. He expressed that he would have reacted differently knowing what he knows now.

The victim was reportedly arguing with Pizzonia's son prior to the assault. The incident took place at the Speedsportz Racing Park. Pizzonia had recently celebrated New Year's with his family in Orlando, Florida, before traveling to Texas for the race.